2009 BMW M3 vs. 1972 Volvo 164
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 164. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 164.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 BMW M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo 164. (241 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1972 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
